Islamabad: The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Islamabad held an Oath-Taking Ceremony for its Flag-Hoisting Squad (PASKIBRA) consisting of Indonesian students in Pakistan, as part of preparations for Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day celebrations on 17 August 2026.
The ceremony was led by Defence Attaché Colonel Henru H. Susanto, as the Inspector of the Ceremony, which was attended by Indonesian diplomats and their spouses, Embassy’s staff, and Indonesian students.
The formation of PASKIBRA squad is carried out every year across Indonesia to mark Independence Day in all institutions at all levels, including the Indonesian foreign missions across the globe. Involving the Indonesian young generation in national celebrations aims to nurturing a strong sense of pride in the nation.
Taking the oath, all members of the Squad reaffirmed their commitment to the four pillars of Indonesian nationality i.e. State Ideology of Pancasila, Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, the 1945 Constitution, and Unity in Diversity as a national motto.
For Indonesian youngsters living and studying thousands of kilometres far from home, the oath carries a special significance, reflecting their continued connection to their home country and their responsibility to represent Indonesia with dignity.
Colonel Henru described the experience as both rewarding and meaningful. “Although training civilian students living abroad presents challenges in maintaining discipline and coordination, but their enthusiasm, determination, and willingness to learn, becomes the Squad’s greatest strengths,” he said right after the Ceremony.
“This year’s Flag-Hoisting squad is predominantly female. This also shows that Indonesian women have an equally important role in nation-building. What matters is their resilience, commitment, discipline, and willingness to serve the country, regardless of gender,” he highlighted the critical contribution of Indonesian women since their youth.
Being selected for PASKIBRA Squad represents both an honor and a responsibility. “I feel very proud to be part of this year’s Flag-Hoisting Squad. I am honored to carry out this responsibility and to be part of one of the most significant moments in the Embassy’s Independence Day celebrations. I am nervous, but equally excited that our Squad will have an important role to play on 17th of August”, said Mawiya, a member of the Squad and student at Lahore Grammar School (LGS), Islamabad.
The Flag-Hoisting Squad has undergone approximately one month of intensive training and repeated rehearsals, focusing on formations, coordination, discipline, and proper flag-handling procedures to ensure that every movement is carried out with precision and dignity.
“We have practiced every day. From 10 am to 4 pm for over a month. For sure, it was tiring, but we’re proud to contribute. Please pray for our success in raising the red and white flag at the upcoming independence ceremony,” said Dinda, other member of the Squad and student at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
The Ceremony concluded with guests being treated with traditional Indonesian cuisines, providing an opportunity to celebrate Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage.
